How to Buy Property in the Sweden as a Foreigner

Who can buy property in Sweden?

Swedish and international individuals alike have the opportunity to purchase real estate in Sweden. There is no prerequisite for being a Swedish citizen or possessing a Swedish personal ID number.

However, certain legal obligations must be met. Initially, acquiring a personal identification number (personnummer) from the Swedish Tax Agency is essential, as it is crucial for all legal transactions in the country, including property purchases. Additionally, having a bank account in Sweden is a prerequisite to successfully finalizing the transaction.

Do the research

Investing in real estate in Sweden may be enticing due to factors such as its stable economy, political stability, a resilient rental market, a well-established legal system safeguarding property rights, and high-quality infrastructure.

Furthermore, Sweden is renowned for its Scandinavian design, marked by minimalist and functional aesthetics. The country features diverse landscapes, ranging from coastlines and beaches to forests and mountains. With a dedication to a superior quality of life, Sweden takes pride in its robust social welfare system, excellent healthcare, and education facilities. 

However, it´s important to conduct thorough research, understand local regulations, and consider market conditions before making any real estate investment.

Here are a few of the more sought-after areas for real estate investments:

  • Stockholm - As the capital and largest city, Stockholm is a major economic and cultural hub. The real estate market here is diverse, offering everything from city-center apartments to suburban homes.
  • Gothenburg - This city on the west coast is known for its maritime industries and cultural events. It has a thriving real estate market with a mix of urban and suburban options.
  • Malmö - Located in the southern part of Sweden, Malmö has seen significant urban development and is known for its modern architecture. The real estate market has been influenced by its proximity to Denmark and the Øresund Bridge.
  • Uppsala - Home to Sweden´s oldest university, Uppsala has a mix of historic and modern properties. It´s a city with a rich cultural and educational heritage.

Where to find properties online:

Financing

Foreign buyers might encounter difficulties securing a mortgage, particularly if they lack a credit history in Sweden. Nevertheless, certain banks do provide mortgage options for non-residents, albeit with the potential requirement of a higher deposit.

Various banks in Sweden, such as Swedbank, Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken (SEB), and Handelsbanken, are recognized for offering mortgage options to non-Swedish citizens.

Property Visits and Preliminary Contract

Consider hiring an inspector to examine the property thoroughly. The inspector covers various aspects and can help mitigate future problems.

Due Diligence and Sales Contract 

Buyers usually conduct due diligence after signing a letter of intent or a similar exclusivity agreement. Throughout this process, both the buyer and the seller typically receive support from legal, financial, commercial, and technical advisors.

It´s important to highlight that in Sweden, accessing information through official records is more straightforward than in Central and Eastern Europe. The Real Property Register provides comprehensive details, including current and past owners, mortgages, tax values, easements, and more. Additionally, information about the purchase prices paid by current and previous owners is available. This easy access to information streamlines the due diligence process, making it secure, reliable, timely, and cost-efficient.

Property Buying Costs and Taxes in Sweden

Transaction Costs
    Who Pays?
Registration Fee SEK 825 (€75) buyer
Stamp Duty 4.25% buyer
Real Estate Agent´s Fee 3.00% - 5.00% seller
Costs paid by buyer 4.25% - 4.26%  
Costs paid by seller 3.00% - 5.00%
ROUNDTRIP TRANSACTION COSTS 7.25% - 7.26%
Source: Global Property Guide